15 August
TEA leaf growers in Southern Shan State are doing well financially due to a high demand for tea leaves.
Southern Shan State is the main producer of tea leaves, which are grown in Kalaw, Ywangan, and Pindaya townships of the state. Fresh tea leaves fetch K1,500-2,500 per viss (1.6 kg), while the prices of dried tea leaves range from K5,500-7,000 per viss. They are primarily sent to Pyay, Pyinmana, Tatkon, Mandalay, and Myingyan towns, said U Sein Win, a grower from Kalaw.
“Both demand and prices are higher than before. The demand for fresh tea leaves has grown. We are delivering them to Pindaya and Aungpan towns,” said a grower from Dayein village from Pindaya Township.
In addition, Myanmar’s tea leaves are shipped to Japan, South Korea, Singapore, China (Taipei), Germany, the US, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Australia, and China. “Exporters are preferring organic dried tea leaves, hoping to create a potential market. Yields of organic farms can be lower than in conventional agriculture. Moreover, local consumption is high. Only a small volume can be exported to foreign markets,” said a tea leaf grower from Taunggyi Township. At present, green tea leaves, organic dried tea leaves, ready-made packaged tea, fresh tea leaves, and an assortment of crispy beans are being exported. —Tin Zar Hlaing/ Htet Myat (Translated by Ei Myat Mon)
